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What is LNG Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines?

Ship to ship Liquefied Natural Gas transfers have hugely become more popular after its initial operation in February 2007, when it was co...

Ship to ship Liquefied Natural Gas transfers have hugely become more popular after its initial operation in February 2007, when it was commercialized. The total volume taken by Liquefied Natural Gas is about 1/600th when it is in the gaseous state, this makes the entire transferring, transporting and storing of LNG a less hectic affair. If Liquefied Natural Gas is being transferred from one ship to the other via cargo, it is essential to follow some standard precautions.

LNG Transfer Systems

They are created to handle unexpected events. It will take care of important parts like minimizing spills and shut down the transfer system. The LNG emergency release system is responsible for the entire safety along with it is also responsible for LNG transfer method during the regular operations.

The Transfer Process Safety Systems

LNG safety transfer systems are responsible for facilitating solutions to the overall LNG processing and management process. In addition to it, it is responsible for the protection against the risk which is involved during the LNG ship to ship risk assessment and management. The LNG safety system will maintain the system's integrity during an emergency in the ship to ship transfer process.

LNG Spill & RPT

The cryogenic liquefied state of LNG will get exposed to the surrounding environment's temperature if LNG escapes during the transfer. The LNG spill could come in contact with water if it occurs offshore. The main purpose of emergency Shut down system is to prevent the LNG spillage. The features are different based on the client specification.

Flip Flap Valve Mechanism

This mechanism provides 100% shut off of both LNG upstream and downstream when the transfer system takes place. The major merits totally depend on its ability and clarity in terms of providing successful operation during the transfer. In addition to it, it also provides low-pressure drop feature which is very useful in maintaining the efficient and also optimizes the LNG transfer times.

ERC Collar Release Mechanism

Shut down detach and the flow of LNG in an emergency are delivered by the ERC Collar Release Mechanism. This mechanism has total 2 merits for Liquefied Natural Gas safety transfer applications. The first merit is that it is independent on the hose line axial tensile load or other similar transfer systems like flange joints. Another merit is the terms of control since it is totally controlled by hydraulic from the HPU, it facilitates several control solutions and option in all cases of emergency situations under all manner of emergency situations.

Conclusion

It is always necessary to perform the transfer during the favorable weather conditions and after both, the ship masters ensure that it is safe. The entire guideline should be followed during the process.

Classes and Standards

One need to ensure that the LNG transportation synchronizes with EN 1474-3 and ISO 18683 and authorize to OCIMF, ISO, SIGTTO, and SGMF.